Elgey becomes Manly’s first 2019 recruit

A star at the Titans in 2015, 24-year-old Elgey has played just 43 games since his debut that season, with a knee injury ruling him out for the whole of 2016 while he's battled to recapture his best form since.

He has played just eight games this year, only making his return against Penrith last Sunday after being dropped following round seven.

However he will get a second chance at Manly in what shapes as a battle to partner skipper Daly Cherry-Evans in the halves, likely going up against Lachlan Croker for the No.6 jersey next year.

"I've known Kane since he was 17 and playing on the Gold Coast have watched him progress through the grades, he's a great kid and very dedicated," said Manly assistant John Cartwright, a former Titans head coach.

"I think he'll relish the opportunity and thrive with the quality of players that will surround him down here. He also gives us more depth in key areas."

Elgey was first approached by Manly in 2015, when Cherry-Evans agreed to join the Titans only to backflip later, and he now becomes their first recruit for next season.

The move comes after fellow playmaker Tyrone Roberts recently signed to return to the Titans from Warrington in England on a three-year-deal.

Manly have battled a horror year off the field, that has also left them uncertain of what salary cap space they will have to play with in 2019.

A decision on whether they can appeal their salary cap sanctions is still pending, expected in the next month, as they face the prospect of beginning next year $330,000 behind the other clubs as punishment for breaches.

Trent Hodkinson is the only other player signed from elsewhere this year after joining the club mid-season, while hooker Apisai Koroisau is at least one current player to have had his contract renewed but not announced.